Each parent is equally responsible for providing for the financial needs of his or her child. But the court cannot enforce this obligation until it makes an order for support. When parents separate, a parent must ask the court to make an order establishing parentage (paternity) and also ask the court to make an order for child support. http://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-support.htm

Divorce Advice For Women - What Women Need To Know About Getting A Divorce So That They Can Protect Themselves Financially, Create A Workable Custody Arrangement And Parenting Plan, And Get The Best Outcome When/If Their Marriage Ends.